News

The cardiac compression assist device keeping hearts pumping

Researchers at the University of Leeds have developed a prototype cardiac compression assist device used to support heart function and blood flow in people who have weakened hearts.

The assist device uses an artificial muscle to improve both systolic (contraction and pumping function) and diastolic (relaxation and filling function) phases of the cardiac cycle.

The mechanical compression force generated by the assist device is used to increase the ventricular pressure to improve the cardiac output. This takes the strain off the failing heart allowing the cardiac muscle time to rest and recover.